The energetic German was a key player for Madrid under Jose Mourinho, and started this season well under Carlo Ancelotti, but a cruciate ligament injury in November cruelly derailed his campaign. Though he may return in time to make Germany’s World Cup squad, Madrid have already moved on without the midfielder, with Angel di Maria, Luka Modric and Xabi Alonso forming a formidable triangle in the middle of the pitch. The arrival of Pogba could make things even more difficult for him and he is one of a number of players rumoured to be part of a Bernabeu clear-out.

With Gareth Bale’s arrival at the Bernabeu last summer, Angel di Maria was expected to be pushed out of Madrid, but the Argentine stayed, fought for his place, and found a new role in the team as a central midfielder. It would be a big ask to expect him to do the same for a second time should Pogba join, however, as there are only so many positions he can play. Tottenham have been consistently linked with the talented attacker, though Arsenal and Manchester United, who were also apparently after his signature, could be more realistic destinations.

If Pogba joins Madrid then established stars won’t be the first collateral damage. Rather, players on the fringes of breaking into the midfield are likely to suffer, and one such example is 21-year-old Brazilian, Casemiro. With an eye for a killer pass, comfortable in possession and even a decent shot, the youngster could be a good investment for any club happy to offer him opportunities. Spurs and Arsenal were linked with him in seasons past.